Old Frame Installations

It seems that whenever I decide to write off a design idea as overused or aesthetically offensive I come across an image that changes my mind. As someone who seems to have a magnetic attraction to frame section of antique shops and a love of salon-style arrangements, the use of frames as art is one idea I simply can't hate. What about you?

Given the variety in frame types, there are a million ways to create a successful frame display. However, like any good arrangement, implementation is key to keep the arrangement from looking like the random back corner of a thrift store. Let's explore a few successful styling tricks...

• 1. In this case, the complimentary color relationship between the blue gray wall color and the subtle variations of yellow and green toned frames are pleasing to the eye, as is the variety of frame shapes in contrast to the interesting shape of the bench beneath it. The bench pillows mimic the variations in the frame color, drawing the color off the wall and into the room. As a result, the frame installation and the bench read as one, almost as if the frames were the back rail of the bench. • 2. In this picture, the stark white frames are all about drama as they mimic the sharp contrast between the dark wall color and the white baseboards and floor boards. • 3. The wood tone frames pick up on the wooden table and x bench beneath, emphasizing the spareness of the display as well as the stark contrast between dark wood and white walls.• 4. The gold frames above the bed draw the gold tone of the curtains into the rest of the room, while the asymmetrical grouping and the surprising nature of empty frames themselves tone down the formality of the room. • 5. A variety of brightly colored frames, propped rather than hung on the walls, creates a sense of whimsy, especially in contrast to the white surroundings. As in the first picture, the pillows on the sofa pick up the colors of the frames, bringing a sense of cohesion into the whimsical room.• 6., 7.Painting the frames the same or similar color as the walls makes the frames act as architectural details. This would be a great way to introduce character into an otherwise bland architectural space.